Chapter 86

Deidre

No.

No no no.

I had no time to consider the implications of the Chiyad Beta Challenge.

No. I had to focus. Think think think!

I withdrew from my husband’s office under the guise of unfinished work and returned to my own. I close the office door behind me, barely able to breathe.

What had I just agreed to? Was this completely insane?

Taking over for Mistra?

No. This was stupid.

No! It was the only reasonable option. I had to honor her.

What was I thinking? This was insane.

Memories swirled to the surface, dense and unstoppable like ink added to water. I fought to stave off the haunting vision of Sienna’s face, but it was no use. Like weeks before, the memories flooded into my mind, this time crisper; more intense, long-forgotten details materializing before me with stunning clarity.

Years before

A knock sounded at the door.

“May I come in?” Said a soft, melodic voice.

“Luna?” I rose reflexively. “You shouldn’t be out of bed–”

She waved a dismissive, gentle hand